Part-Time Employee Vs. Full-Time Employee

Business owners sometimes have to decide whether to hire part-time or full-time employees.

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An important consideration for a small-business owner is whether to hire employees that are full time, part time or a combination of the two. Each comes with certain benefits and drawbacks involving such things as cost and worker commitment. The type of business you run is also a factor when determining if full-time or part-time workers are more suitable.

Features

According to the Reference for Business website, federal law says part-time workers work less than 1,000 hours per year, or about 17.5 hours per week. They may work on a seasonal or year-round basis, and typically do not receive benefits. Reference for Business also indicates that small-business consultants advise business owners to consider making employees who work 30 or more hours per week full-time workers.

Types

Full-time workers are typically individuals who are interested in pursuing a career or need to earn a regular income and benefits to support themselves or a family. Ideal candidates for part-time work are often retirees who are looking to supplement retirement income, students, parents who wish to earn money while still having time to stay home with children or those willing to start out part time in the hopes of eventually earning a full-time position.

Benefits

Hiring part-time workers may be a more attractive choice for business owners who need to keep costs to a minimum. According to Elwood N. Chapman, author of "Human Relations in Small Business," part-time workers may show more enthusiasm for their jobs and can be more eager to learn. Hiring part-time workers gives employers the chance to try out a new hire before making her a full-time employee.

Drawbacks

A possible drawback to hiring part-time workers is that they may not be as committed to the job or the company as a full-timer. As a result, absenteeism may be higher than with a full-time workforce. Part-time workers may also have less experience and may be limited in the types of tasks they can perform.

Considerations

In addition to your willingness and ability to absorb labor costs, the type of small business you operate can determine whether you hire full-time or part-time workers. Industries that offer unskilled labor positions, such as retail, rely heavily on a part-time workforce. Industries that require more specialized skills and knowledge tend to hire more full-time workers.

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